Safety and Security in Kitsap County
Emergency Preparedness
Be Prepared for Natural Disasters and Emergencies: Kitsap County is prone to various natural disasters, including earthquakes, severe weather, and potential wildfires. Being prepared can significantly reduce risks to you and your property.
-
Emergency Kits: Have an emergency supply kit ready for both your home and car. It should include water, non-perishable food, first aid supplies, flashlights, batteries, and personal documents.
-
Family Communication Plan: Establish a plan with your family for evacuations and check-ins in case of an emergency. Knowing how to reach each other and where to meet is crucial.
-
Stay Informed: Sign up for local alerts and warnings. Kitsap County provides emergency notifications and severe weather shelter information to keep you informed. Use resources like the Kitsap County Emergency Management for updates and the Community Connect portal for personalized emergency response information.
-
Preparedness Resources: Visit sites like Central Kitsap Fire and Rescue and Port Orchard Emergency Management for comprehensive guides on preparing for disasters, from earthquake readiness to wildfire evacuation plans.
Security Measures
Enhancing Your Safety in Our Community
As a valued tenant, your safety and well-being are our top priorities. Here’s how you can actively participate in our community’s safety measures and ensure a secure living environment for yourself and your neighbors:
Establish a Personal Safety Network
-
Know Your Neighbors: Creating a friendly rapport with your neighbors can be a pivotal step in enhancing your home’s security. Exchange contact information and consider keeping each other informed about any suspicious activities or safety concerns.
-
Community Watch: Engage with or help to establish a neighborhood watch program. Such programs foster community collaboration in reporting and preventing crime and can serve as an informal yet effective security measure.
Stay Informed and Prepared
-
Local Law Enforcement Resources: Familiarize yourself with the local police department's non-emergency contact numbers and any community liaison officers assigned to your area. They can offer personalized advice and updates on local safety protocols.
-
Safety Workshops: Look out for safety workshops or seminars hosted by local law enforcement or community organizations. These events can provide valuable information on keeping your home safe from common threats.
Utilize Surveillance Cameras
-
Stay Informed: Be aware of the locations of cameras in common areas and entrances. Understanding that these areas are monitored can give you peace of mind and help you make informed decisions about your safety.
-
Report Suspicious Activity: If you notice anything unusual or suspicious in monitored areas, don’t hesitate to report it to property management or security personnel.
Make Smart Use of Access Controls
-
Secure Entry: Always ensure that doors close and lock behind you when entering or exiting. Avoid holding doors open for strangers or individuals without proper access.
-
Key/Card Safety: Protect your keys or access cards and never lend them out. Report lost or stolen items immediately to prevent unauthorized access to your living space.
Practice Fire Safety
-
Know Your Exits: Familiarize yourself with the nearest exits from your apartment and building. Take note of all available escape routes in case of an emergency.
-
Participate in Drills: Engage in regular fire drills seriously. Practice makes perfect, and knowing how to respond in a real emergency can save lives.
-
Maintain Smoke Alarms: Test your smoke alarms regularly and report any malfunctions. Never disable a smoke alarm.
-
Have an Evacuation Plan: Discuss and plan how to evacuate your apartment safely with all household members. Identify a safe meeting point outside the building.
Additional Safety Tips
-
Emergency Contacts: Keep a list of emergency contact numbers in a visible and accessible place within your apartment.
-
Stay Informed: Subscribe to community alerts or newsletters to stay informed about safety updates or concerns within the property.
Your proactive involvement in these safety measures not only contributes to your well-being but also fosters a secure and welcoming environment for the entire community. If you have suggestions for improving safety or have concerns about security features, we encourage open communication with our property management team. Together, we can ensure a safe and secure living environment for everyone.
Get Involved
Community Emergency Response Teams (CERT): Kitsap County encourages residents to get involved with CERT programs. These programs train volunteers in basic disaster response skills, such as fire safety, light search and rescue, and medical operations. Being part of CERT allows you to assist others in your neighborhood or workplace following an event when professional responders are not immediately available.
For more detailed information on emergency preparedness, security measures, and how to get involved in community safety initiatives, please refer to the Kitsap County Department of Emergency Management and local fire and rescue resources.